Case 158 - laws regarding the sale of knives (including table cutlery) in department stores to under 18's is over the top

Issue

The enquirer thinks that that the laws regarding the sale of knives (including table cutlery) in department stores to under 18's is over the top. They do not agree with shops and department stores management defending their position by claiming it is because of health and safety laws.

Panel decision

Occupational health and safety law does not restrict the sale of knives, but it is an offence under the Criminal Justice Act to sell or hire knives to anyone under the age of 18 in England and Wales. Although not strictly health and safety law it is not surprising in this case that the intent of the legal restriction is explained by stores in this way.